Breastfeeding can be challenging, especially with added hay fever symptoms. Having relied on many products before, most state they may not be safe for breastfeeding. Unfortunately, there is no easy answer, and our clinicians at Healthwords are used to weighing up risks and benefits – some products that are labelled as "unlicensed for breastfeeding" may be an option after discussion with your doctor. With breastfeeding the main issue is the active ingredient in the antihistamine, enters the milk, which will get absorbed by the infant. Let’s arm you with the facts first before you speak to your doctor. It’s also worth stating that hay fever, or allergic rhinitis (similar to eye and nose symptoms to any allergen), is not known to cause any harm to you or your growing baby if left untreated. It’s for your comfort if you wish to pursue treatment for your symptoms.

The allergic march describes a common set of allergic conditions, where one can lead on to another as a child ages. This includes eczema (atopic dermatitis), food allergy, hay fever (allergic rhinitis) and asthma. As these are collectively called atopy, it’s sometimes referred to as the atopic march, with one marching into the next like unstoppable soldiers. Allergic conditions often run in families, although it can vary which is most bothersome for each child or adult. First degree relatives – a parent or sibling – make you high risk for developing an allergic condition, and you are at highest risk if both of your parents suffer.

Skin prick testing is a type of allergy testing for those with urticaria (hives) or hay fever-type symptoms. If you’re not sure what’s causing you to itch, sneeze, rub irritated eyes, break out in a rash or get asthma attacks, this test can help work out your triggers. It mostly relates to a response by the body where a chemical called histamine is released that causes the symptoms of allergy. Skin prick testing is also used for more severe allergic reactions, like bee stings, which can threaten your airways and cause anaphylaxis. This is an extreme histamine response that carries serious implications for the future. It can be reassuring for people to be able to pinpoint an allergen and try to avoid it. Where someone may be going to great lengths to avoid (or get their child to avoid) certain foods or other potential allergens, ir can be a great relief to know things they are not allergic to, and be able to re-introduce these.

Hay fever affects many people and is caused by an allergy to pollen. But did you know people are usually allergic to certain pollens and not others which is why people suffer hay fever at different points in the year? We’ll take you through matching your symptoms to the different pollens so you can get on top of your hay fever.

If you’ve tried over-the-counter pharmacy products and you’re not getting on top of your symptoms, book an appointment with your doctor. They will assess your symptoms and what you’ve tried already, and work out the best solution for you. They may prescribe a stronger antihistamine tablet or steroid nasal spray. You should also see your doctor if you’ve been on antihistamine tablets for three months or more – they may advise you to change the brand or try another treatment.

If the pollen season is a time you dread each year, you may be looking for ways to relieve your hay fever symptoms. For a few people, avoiding the allergen and products from your pharmacy aren’t enough. As a doctor myself, I can take you through the options your own doctor may consider if your symptoms are taking their toll, including desensitising with allergy immunotherapy.